Honduras Rosewood

Honduras Rosewood

Botanical Name: 

Dalbergia stevensonii

Family: 
Leguminosae

Mature Tree Height, Diameter: 
50-100 ft , to 3 ft

Weight @ 12% M/C: 
58-68 lbs./ft.3

Working Properties: 
Moderately difficult to saw and machine due to hardness,
dulls cutting edges, tends to ride over cutters.

Growing Regions: 
Belize

General Characteristics: 
Pinkish brown to purple, texture medium to fine,
grain straight to slightly roey, luster low to medium, odor of roses.

Uses: 
Musical instruments, veneer, fine furniture, cabinetry,
brush backs, knife handles, and other specialty items.

Acceptable Substitutes: 
Granadillo

References: 
"Tropical Timbers of the World", USDA Handbook #607, Sept. 1984, p. 67

Discussion: 
Honduras Rosewood is the wood-of-choice for marimba keys.
The best marimbas are made rosewood, and the best-of-the-best
are made from quarter-sawn material. It is frequently used for a
number of other types of instruments due to its nearly perfect tonal qualities.